The monkeypox virus belongs to the orthopoxvirus group of viruses and causes monkeypox. It is related to the smallpox virus (variola), and cowpox. People may contract the monkeypox virus from an infected animal via bite, or direct contact with the infected animals blood, body fluids, or open wounds. The virus is then spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets during direct or prolonged face-to face contact. Although it is less infectious than smallpox, it can be spread via direct contact of an infection persons body fluids, or even virus-contaminated objects such as clothing, bedding, or other materials.
The monkeypox virus belongs to the orthopoxvirus group of viruses and causes monkeypox. It is related to the smallpox virus (variola), and cowpox. People may contract the monkeypox virus from an infected animal via bite, or direct contact with the infected animals blood, body fluids, or open wounds. The virus is then spread person-to-person through respiratory droplets during direct or prolonged face-to face contact. Although it is less infectious than smallpox, it can be spread via direct contact of an infection persons body fluids, or even virus-contaminated objects such as clothing, bedding, or other materials.